Empowering Student Innovators with Transferable Skills

In September, Glasshouse Christian College proudly hosted our much-anticipated 2024 DeLorean Youth Innovation Showcase—and it was nothing short of spectacular! The event gave our students the opportunity to present their incredible innovations, each addressing real-world problems with creativity, precision, and purpose. More importantly, it showcased the vital role of transferable skills—such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication—that our students have developed throughout the program. These skills are not only relevant now, but will be essential as they move into the workforce, navigating various careers and industries.

The heart of the DeLorean Youth Innovation Showcase was undoubtedly the bustling student expo, where the energy of young innovation filled the air. Approximately 80 students, working collaboratively in teams, proudly presented around 30 unique ideas to an engaged audience of peers, educators, industry professionals, and community members. The expo hall buzzed with excitement as visitors moved from booth to booth, each showcasing a different innovative solution to real-world challenges. From sustainable energy concepts to cutting-edge educational tools, the diversity and creativity on display were truly impressive. Guests were treated to live demonstrations, interactive displays, and passionate explanations from the young innovators, offering a glimpse into the bright future these students are actively shaping. This expo not only celebrated the students’ hard work and ingenuity but also provided them with invaluable experience in presenting and defending their ideas in a professional setting.

Our students rose to the occasion with inspiring projects that left the audience in awe. During the presentation part of the evening, we go to acknowledge students who exemplified the attributes that the DeLorea Project Program is founded on. Congratulations to the following award winners:

Self-Awareness Award: Lachlan, for his insightful podcast Locked In With Lachlan, which explores personal growth and overcoming challenges. His podcast is now available on Spotify and YouTube.

Social-Awareness Award: Eli, Elijah, Noah and Tim, the team behind Fundies (Functional Underwear), a line of adaptive clothing designed to restore dignity to those with injuries or disabilities that make dressing difficult. Their product addresses a genuine need with both empathy and practicality.

Creative Mindset Award: Mia and Georgia, co-founders of Bear-able, introduced their weighted cuddle bears designed to help young people manage anxiety, stress, and sensory sensitivities. Their project blends creativity with a deep understanding of emotional well-being.

Use of Technology Award: Dalton, Jacob, and Hayden, the creators of Quickshardes, developed a quick-release bracket system for 4WD vehicles, making it easier for campers to mount and unmount their sun shades. Their innovation stands out for its simplicity and functionality.

DeLorean Project Innovators of the Year Award: The big winners of the night were Jolie, Liana, and Holly, co-founders of RoomReadi. Their retail technology platform is set to revolutionise the shopping experience by combining the convenience of online shopping with the tactile advantages of in-store shopping. RoomReadi not only saves time and reduces packaging waste but also provides retailers with ‘warm leads’ in-store, creating a seamless blend of both worlds.

Our keynote speaker, Kurt Jones, founder and CEO of Co-exist Australia, inspired everyone with his powerful message: “You are not the leaders of tomorrow, you are the leaders of today.” His speech framed the opportunities students have before them in a way that encouraged them to see their potential for making a real impact on the world right now.

We were also thrilled to have DeLorean mentor Angie Hammond share her experiences. Her insights into the mentorship process and its impact on student growth were particularly valuable, highlighting the crucial role mentors play in the program’s success.

A cornerstone of the DeLorean Project is its robust mentorship program. Throughout the year, students are paired with industry professionals and academics who provide invaluable guidance and support. These mentors play a crucial role in helping students navigate the complexities of their projects, offering real-world insights and encouraging the development of professional skills. The mentorship program creates a bridge between classroom learning and practical application, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of how their ideas might function in a professional context.

Mentors work closely with students to refine their ideas, overcome challenges, and prepare for the showcase. This relationship often extends beyond the project itself, with mentors becoming valuable contacts in the students’ growing professional networks. The program not only enhances the quality of student innovations but also gives students a glimpse into real-world applications of their ideas, helping them to envision potential career paths and opportunities. We were thrilled to have several DeLorean mentors share their experiences at the showcase. One mentor, Amalya Harding, a PhD candidate from the University of the Sunshine Coast, emphasised the importance of giving young people a voice in today’s decision-making processes. These mentors played an invaluable role in helping students navigate their projects and develop the skills they need to succeed.

At the heart of the DeLorean Project is a focus on transferable skills. Our students learn to collaborate, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively—skills that will benefit them long after they leave the classroom. Whether they pursue careers in business, science, technology, or any other field, these core skills are essential for their growth and success.

As we celebrate the success of this year’s showcase, we’re already looking forward to our 10th year of the program in 2025 and the innovations our students will bring to future events. As the DeLorean Project continues to evolve, it will do so with the goal of providing our students with the skills, experiences, and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world.

We invite our community to stay engaged with the DeLorean Project. Whether you’re a potential mentor, an industry partner, or simply an enthusiast for youth innovation, your support helps cultivate the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.

Congratulations to all the students, mentors, and supporters who made the 2024 DeLorean Youth Innovation Showcase such a success! We are incredibly proud of each and every student for their hard work, creativity, and dedication to having a real impact on the world around them.

Rob Steffler, Dean of Studies, DeLorean Project Coordinator